Recognising the power of social media to influence, the Ministry of Tourism took the lead to organise the inaugural Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Conference and Awards (MITBCA 2012) in Seri Pacific Hotel, Kuala Lumpur on 8-9 May 2012 to increase the awareness on the pivotal role of social media in tourism and to accord due recognition to bloggers who have shown their dedication to the cause of sharing their travel experiences.

Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Awards

In conjunction with the conference, the inaugural Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Awards is to identify, recognise and reward bloggers for their outstanding contributions in promoting tourism through the new media. I was privileged to attend the event to gain knowledge besides increasing my circle of network in the tourism and social media world. 😀

Editor to New York Times Group travel site &amp; writer on About.com SEA

Nisha Jha

Traveller, travel writer &amp; blogger

Stephan Doss

Social media activist – Renovatio Malaysia

Windy Ariestanty

Prominent travel writer, Indonesia

Iman Brotosena

Social media activist &amp; prominent Indonesian blogger

Kiruba Shanker Sivaraman

CEO – Business Blogging, India

David Hogan Jr

Travel writer, photographer &amp; editor, Malaysia Asia

Jojo Struys

Popular TV host/producer &amp; media columnist

Joe Lee @ Klubbkidd

Social media activist, advisor to prominent online celebrities

James Craven

Managing Director – Hybrid News Ltd. UK

Khairul Anwar @ Kruel74

A lawyer, social media advocate &amp; avid traveller

Gloria a.k.a Bonjour Glow and Erika at the Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Conference and Awards (MITBCA)Anis Nabilah and Erika at the Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Conference and Awards (MITBCA)Hanie Hidayah and Erika at the Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Conference and Awards (MITBCA)David Hogan Jr a.k.a Malaysia Asia, Gloria, Alistar Watters and Erika at the Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Conference and Awards (MITBCA)Shane Dallas a.k.a The Travel Camel, Gloria and Erika at the Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Conference and Awards (MITBCA)Sheila Scarborough and Erika at the Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Conference and Awards (MITBCA)

In a Nutshell

I generously acquired a large sum of knowledge from the experts and veteran bloggers at the conference. New friends were made and healthy relationships were formed. It was a start to something bigger, better and beautiful. I am proud and blessed to be a part of the Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Conference and Awards (MITBCA) 2012. Till we meet again next year. 😀